Car buyers interested in the excellent Mazda brand from Japan will quickly become familiar with the term ‘Jinba Ittai’. It has become Mazda’s mantra and a rule the company has come to live by. Translating from a language as complex as Japanese is not easy, as we found out here at MHH Japanese Cars, but the simple translation is just ‘Horse and Rider’. As any Mazda executive will say if asked, it’s actually more complex than that. Jinba Ittai explains the connection or bond between the horse and its rider. It describes when horse and rider become one. Thus the term relates to the driver and the car in automotive terms. The idea is to imply harmony. We hope that’s clear.
The Car Itself
The Mazda Atenza, also known as the Mazda6 in some global markets, is a mid-size saloon car produced by Mazda since 2002, undergoing changes on the way and culminating in the current models we know today. It is a handsome, roomy motor with mature styling. For a mainstream car it is very well finished with a refined cabin and loads of technology and premium benefits, like an 8” colour touchscreen with infotainment, Bluetooth connectivity, lane-keep assist, privacy glass, parking sensors, heated wing mirrors, heated seats and the like. The list is impressive and pushes Mazda much closer to the premium brands that traditionally steal the limelight in the upmarket sector.
The Power
The principle difference between Mazda and many other brands is that they have spurned the turbo-charger for their own, home grown ‘SkyActiv’ engine technology. It works too, with a choice of three petrol engines and two diesels paired to automatic or manual transmissions with the company’s ‘i-stop idle-stop system’ as standard in most regions. Diesel-powered estate cars (wagons) are also available with Mazda’s latest-generation all-wheel drive system.
The Cabin
We love Mazda interiors. Everything has been properly considered and the cabin feels plush and luxurious, especially for this price bracket. Some models embellish this with leather upholstery (region and model dependent) that also covers the dashboard. No scratchy plastic here. The front seats are tremendously comfortable and the rear roomy. If a sunroof is fitted it can impinge a bit on headroom for taller passengers in the back but that’s a personal choice. Nice in warm weather though.
The Drive
The Mazda Atenza, for such a large car, is very good to drive with clear, linear steering and a surprising agility that gives the driver that feeling of being involved. Overall ride comfort is nice and smooth, absorbing country road potholes and bumps well and providing a seamless drive on better highways. The Atenza is something of a departure from the norm, as influenced by German brands say, but that difference makes a statement; ‘Jinba Ittai’. Here at MHH Japanese Cars we can offer an excellent selection of this vehicles. Check out our listings or Get in touch with us for help from the team.
